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Danish responsible fashion brand Stine Goya made a powerful statement at Copenhagen Fashion Week by inviting hijabi athlete Intisar Abdul-Kader to walk in their show. The runway event, which revolved around the theme of “home,” showcased the brand’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, featuring models of various backgrounds, sizes, and ages. The show, held on the designer’s own residential street in Copenhagen, even concluded with Danish supermodel Helena Christensen.For Intisar Abdul-Kader, the fashion opportunity served as a platform to promote her latest venture, the All-4-1 Running Crew. Established to provide a safe and inclusive space for runners of all backgrounds and body types, the collective embodies Abdul-Kader’s vision of creating a welcoming environment for hijab-wearing athletes. As a long-distance runner with a multicultural heritage, Abdul-Kader’s journey has been shaped by her parents’ mixed ethnicity—Somaliland, Yemen, Sudan, and Ethiopia. She reminisces about her early years in Abu Dhabi, where she discovered her love for running and found a sense of belonging.Reflecting on her passion for the sport, Abdul-Kader states, “Running as a hijab-wearing, Muslim athlete is empowering for myself, and I hope I get to inspire the next young person to run too. There is room for everybody in this beautiful sport, and that includes hijab-wearing athletes.” Her presence on Stine Goya’s runway not only highlights her achievements as an athlete but also reinforces the idea that the world of fashion is becoming more inclusive and representative of diverse identities.Stine Goya’s Spring 2024 collection marks a departure from their usual color palette and prints, instead focusing on a streamlined silhouette and intricate embellishments, including pearl details. Designer Stine Goya explains that this shift is a result of reflection and exploration of early styling references. The collection beautifully encapsulates a sense of “homecoming,” where modernity meets timeless elegance. Goya’s commitment to maintaining the brand’s DNA while embracing subtlety and intricate details is evident in every piece.Intisar Abdul-Kader’s participation in the runway show not only underscores her role as an athlete and advocate for inclusivity but also showcases the fashion industry’s evolving landscape. Her presence aligns with the brand’s message of cherishing the concept of “home” in its various forms—physical, emotional, and cultural. By representing hijab-wearing athletes, Abdul-Kader contributes to breaking stereotypes and promoting empowerment through sports, inspiring others to pursue their passions regardless of their backgrounds.Stine Goya’s choice to invite Intisar Abdul-Kader to walk in their show sends a powerful message about the importance of representation and diversity in the fashion world. The fusion of fashion and sports not only celebrates individuality but also emphasizes that there is a place for everyone in these realms. As the industry continues to evolve, the collaboration between Stine Goya and Abdul-Kader stands as a testament to the positive changes being made and the inspirational figures leading the way.
